KSI Kitchens and Baths Implements Cost-Saving Demountable Truck Body System Into Michigan Delivery Operation - 2005

Brighton, MI based KSI has recently transformed its entire fleet of delivery trucks to the Demountable Truck Body System. Increasing labor costs associated with loading trucks on overtime necessitated this dramatic move. Being able to outfit standard straight trucks with removable, interchangeable van bodies allows cabinet companies extraordinary flexibility.

In the past, the KSI drivers would try to leave the distribution center by 6:30AM. After a day’s worth of deliveries, the drivers would return to the distribution center to load their own trucks. Because the KSI facility only has one loading door, drivers would have to wait until the door was freed up to begin their loading. This arrangement often led to drivers being on the clock for eleven to twelve hours per day. Along with tremendous amounts of driver overtime, the warehouse was always in disarray, having pulled cabinets for eleven delivery trucks and trying to find a place to stage them.

Faced with these ongoing challenges and a determination to cut costs, Manager of Operations, Brian Crimmins decided to totally transform his delivery fleet. The Demountable Truck Body System has allowed KSI to load truck bodies and deliver cabinets simultaneously during normal business hours. Each truck is outfitted with a hydraulic lift system that enables multiple bodies to be swapped on and off the chassis within minutes.

Many other cabinet companies as well as building supply companies benefit from using the Demountable System. Demountable Concepts manufactures the system and has product information including a free videotape as well as a demonstration unit in certain areas.